Prevalencia de trastornos alimentarios en Ecuador

Abstract

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) represent one of the most socially significant health problems, where anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are the most well-known types of syndromes worldwide. In particular, in the Republic of Ecuador, they represent a latent problem; however, there are no precise data or official reports on the current situation of these mental health issues. Objective: This research analyzes the prevalence of eating disorders in Ecuador. Methodology: Mixed method, involving a series of critical research processes, collection, and analysis of QUANT and QUAL data obtained through searches in different databases such as Google Scholar and ResearchGate, as well as specialized databases such as Scopus, PubMed, and others in the country. In addition, exploratory data analysis and descriptive statistical analysis are performed. Results: In sum, the data expose a population-based sample of 8,858 people, where approximately 1,638 individuals were found to be within the prevalence, risk, and diagnostic outcomes of AN, BN, or an ED overall. Conclusion: In the Ecuadorian population, the prevalence of ED is estimated to be 18.4 individuals per 100 persons between 2008 and 2023. The findings indicate a more significant presence of ED cases, followed by BN and, ultimately, AN. Thus, the cases were evaluated mainly through psychological tests such as the ED and based on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria.